Billins, Blashill, Marchenko to represent Michigan at AHL All-Star Classic

January 9, 2014 MiHockey Staff

blashill from newman sized — Jeff Blashill will lead the AHL All-Star Team against a top-tier SEL team this February. (Mark Newman/Grand Rapids Griffins)

By Michael Caples –

The American Hockey League announced their roster for the 2014 AHL All-Star Classic today, and three Michigan connections appear on the list.

Marysville native Chad Billins, currently with the Abbotsford Heat after making his pro debut with the Grand Rapids Griffins last year, made the team for the second time in as many years. Billins, who signed with the Calgary Flames in the offseason, has six goals and 20 assists in 33 games this year.

His former coach – Griffins bench boss Jeff Blashill – will join Billins at the Classic, which takes place at Mile One Centre in St. Johns, N.L. Blashill, the Saulte Ste. Marie native, is the coach of the all-star squad that will take on Farjestad BK, one of the top Swedish Hockey League teams, during a two-day All-Star event on Feb. 11-12.

Blashill will bring one of his current Griffins defensemen with him, as well, as Alexey Marchenko also made the squad. Marchenko, who played in _ games with the Red Wings during a recent call-up, has recorded two goals and 14 assists for 16 points and a +15 rating in 33 games.